If you have recently moved into a new home or are preparing to make updates to an older home, it is important to make sure your electrical systems are all functioning properly and safely. Identifying any problems before they become a safety hazard allows you to have them fixed without danger to yourself and your family. Additionally, it can be helpful to have a list to present to a Benbrook electrician so they are able to take care of your biggest problems first. Below are some tips for what to check in your home.

Needs and Wants

If you are doing renovations or moving in, there are likely some things you feel could be better about your electrical system. If you want to add lights or outlets, use dimmers instead of switches, or upgrade to heated floors, you should make notes of these things first. This allows you to discuss your end goals early on.

Light Switches and Dimmers

You should identify each light switch or dimmer in your home and feel to see if they are hot. If so, electricity is likely building up behind the switch and it should be shut off and looked at by a Benbrook electrician immediately. While dimmers may be warmer on lower settings, it should never be hot or smoking. You should also ensure that each switch has a plate cover on it, as some homeowners remove them when they move out. These plates prevent moisture from entering the wires and you from receiving an electrical shock, so r0065placing them is important.

Outlets

Take stock of the outlets in each room, making sure they are in convenient locations and that they are all three-pronged outlets. You should also ensure that there are switch plate covers on each outlet and that they do not wobble or move in any way. If you are going to upgrade outlets, note where USB ports would be useful in addition to traditional ports.

Light Fixtures

Any ceiling-mounted fixtures should be secured, most importantly. Once this is complete you should take note of the wattage and bulbs each fixture requires and make sure you are choosing wattage that is not higher than the recommendation. This is also a good chance to determine if you like the fixtures, would like them moved, or want to add new features like under counter lighting in the kitchen.

Checking these items will allow you to be prepared for your first visit with a Benbrook electrician, as well as take care of some safety basics in your home. If anything looks amiss, you have questions, or are ready to make changes, contact Turner Electric today.